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Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: The Transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) was created to enhance drug release sustainability, increase drug bioavailability, and improve patient compliance. Matrix dispersion transdermal patches distribute the drug in a solvent with polymers, and then the solvent evaporates to create a uniform drug-polymer matrix. The aim of this study was to create and develop transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) containing granisetron hydrochloride and assess its prolonged release in laboratory conditions. Materials and Methods: The study aims to develop a matrix-type transdermal treatment system that includes granisetron hydrochloride using different ratios of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymer combinations through the solvent evaporation process. Results: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to investigate the physicochemical compatibility of the drug with the polymers. The results showed that there was no physical-chemical incompatibility between the drug and the polymers. The patches were subjected to further physical evaluations and in-vitro permeation studies. Conclusions: The patches containing Carbopol 934P and ethylcellulose, along with span 80 as the penetration enhancer, were identified as the most effective formulations for transdermal delivery of granisetron hydrochloride based on physical evaluation and in-vitro studies.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely used for treating various cancers, but is known for its detrimental side effects, including reproductive toxicity in males. The aim of this study to the effects of hydroethanol extracts of tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus) and date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced reproductive damage in male Wistar rats. A total of 35 rats were divided into seven groups with 5 rats per group and subjected to DOX-induced reproductive toxicity (15 mg/kg for three days), followed by administration of different doses of the plant extracts, for 27 days. On the 31st day animals were sacrificed and samples collected for the Biochemical analysis of reproductive hormone levels (FSH, LH, testosterone), sperm quality, and testicular histology. The DOX-only group showed significant reductions in sperm count, motility, hormone levels, and antioxidant status, with increased lipid peroxidation and abnormal testicular histology. Conversely, groups treated with tiger nuts and date palm extracts, particularly at high doses and in combination, demonstrated marked improvements in these parameters. Co-administration significantly restored hormone levels, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, improved sperm morphology and count, and reversed DOX-induced histopathological alterations. The findings confirm that tiger nuts and date palm possess strong antioxidant and fertility-enhancing properties capable of mitigating DOX-induced reproductive toxicity.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
The development of effective and targeted therapies for colorectal cancer remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the in vitro anticancer efficacy of a novel chitosan-based nanoemulgel co-delivering the natural compounds cynaropicrin and salicin against HCT 116 human colorectal cancer cells. An optimized nanoemulgel formulation (designated F2) was developed by incorporating an oil phase (MCT oil) containing lipophilic cynaropicrin into an aqueous phase containing hydrophilic salicin and chitosan (0.5% w/v), followed by high-shear homogenization, sonication, and incorporation into a Carbopol gel. This F2 formulation exhibited a mean particle size of 85.50 ± 0.44 nm, a low polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.272 ± 0.003, a zeta potential of -35.3 ± 0.2 mV, and high encapsulation efficiencies for cynaropicrin (91.80 ± 0.57%) and salicin (81.40 ± 0.85%), with sustained in vitro drug release over 24 hours. Cytotoxicity of F2 against HCT 116 cells, assessed by MTT assay, revealed a potent dose-dependent reduction in cell viability, with an IC₅₀ value of approximately 42 µg/mL. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the observed cytotoxicity was mediated, at least in part, through the induction of apoptosis. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining followed by flow cytometry showed a significant, concentration-dependent increase in both early and late apoptotic cell populations, with an estimated apoptosis IC₅₀ of ~55 µg/mL. Furthermore, the nanoemulgel significantly inhibited HCT 116 cell migration in a dose-dependent manner, as determined by the scratch (wound healing) assay. At 48 hours, the highest concentration of F2 (5.00 µg/mL) reduced wound closure to 5.0%, compared to 28.3% in untreated controls. These findings highlight the potent cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, and anti-migratory effects of the cynaropicrin and salicin co-loaded nanoemulgel, suggesting its promising potential as a multi-modal therapeutic strategy for colorectal cancer.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major public health concern in Nigeria, with oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) forming the mainstay of treatment. This mixed-methods study compared the efficacy and side effect profiles of OAD classes among T2DM outpatients at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH). Methods: A retrospective analysis of 400 patient records (January 2023–December 2024) examined prescribing patterns, glycemic control (HbA1c, fasting blood glucose [FBG]), and adherence (Medication Possession Ratio). A prospective cohort (N = 450, January–June 2025) assessed outcomes via interviews and lab tests. Data were analyzed using χ² tests, Pearson correlations, and ANOVA in SPSS v27 and GraphPad Prism 10.2 (p ≤ .05). Power analysis indicated 80% power for detecting medium effects (f = 0.25). Results: Baseline HbA1c was 12.59% ± 3.40%, reducing to 10.87% ± 3.08% at follow-up (p = .001), with 42% achieving <7%. Sulfonylureas and SGLT2 inhibitors showed trends toward greater reductions (0.9%–1.1%), but differences were non-significant across classes (p > .05). Common side effects included hypoglycemia (44%–77% with sulfonylureas) and gastrointestinal upset (9%–40% with metformin/DPP-4 inhibitors); no significant adherence correlations (r = –.018 to .064, p = .202–.877). Females had poorer adherence (χ² = 7.829, p = .019). Conclusion: OADs provided modest glycemic improvements, but suboptimal control persists. Side effects were mild and did not strongly impact adherence. Tailored therapy and adherence support are recommended, with newer agents showing promise if accessible.
Original Research Article
Influence of Two Kinds of Anaesthetic Agents on Urea and Creatinine Levels in Male Wistar Rats
Confidence Waribo Ihua, John Nwolim Paul, Minini Odimabo, Mercy Kelechi Azumah, Chioma Akunnaya Ohanenye, Idawarifa Frank Cookey-Gam, Polycarp Unim Adie, Okoi Clement Okoi, Exploit Ezinne Chukwuka
EAS J Pharm Pharmacol, 2025; 7(4): 89-93
https://doi.org/10.36349/easjpp.2025.v07i04.002
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ABSTRACT
Background: The use of anaesthetics, local or general, is common in hospital setting for surgical interventions. Anaesthetic agents are capable of producing changes on the renal physiology and affecting important biochemical aspects like blood urea and creatinine. It is important to study these effects as they are helpful in determining the safety of such drugs on laboratory animals which can be translated in clinical trials in future research. This experiment was done to determine the effects of ketamine and lidocaine on the level of urea and creatinine in the serum of male Wistar rats. Methodology: A total of 35 adult male Wistar rats were used for this study and they were randomly classified into 5 groups, after one week acclimatization period. These groups included the control group, a lidocaine-treated group without adrenaline, a lidocaine treated group with adrenaline, a ketamine-treated group and a group treated with a combination of ketamine and lidocaine. The anaesthetic agents were administered, at a standard dose, intraperitoneally, and blood samples were obtained after exposure. Biochemical assays to determine serum urea and creatinine were done through the use of standard methods. One way ANOVA analysis with special emphasis on any significant differences among groups was conducted on data. Results and Discussion: It is established in this study that anaesthetic drugs especially the ketamine group has the capacity to increase urea and creatinine levels of rats. This shows that ketamine anaesthetic drug has the capacity to cause kidney disorders. In view of the above, it is recommended that patient undergoing surgeries under ketamine anaesthetics should do so with caution. Pre-operative systemic review should be encouraged. Conclusion: Ketamine and lidocaine greatly affect the level of serum urea and creatinine in male Wistar rats and their combined application had the most significant effects. These findings emphasise the importance of the choice of ana
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: Individuals with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or ischaemic heart disease are susceptible to anxiety and sadness. Depression is prevalent in individuals with ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Approximately 2.4 million patients are hospitalised annually in India with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Post-ACS depression constitutes an independent risk factor for subsequent cardiac events and death, with a greater prevalence in women than in males. Aim: In present investigation was deals with depression diagnosis for patient with AMI. Method: This retrospective study focused on Medicare FFS enrolees having experienced their first AMI in 2017–2018 and were free of prior depression diagnoses. Result: The findings of the current analysis indicate that early identification and treatment of depression might alleviate some negative effects on healthcare expenses and utilisation by decreasing the probability of recurrence and adverse outcomes. Timely identification of depression may contribute to stabilising long-term expenses, however a delayed diagnosis might hinder the attainment of favourable outcomes.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Illegible handwritten prescriptions for look-alike sound-alike medications (LASAMs) compromise pharmaceutical service quality, dispensing errors, and patient safety risks. Methods: To date, little is documented on the real dispensing practices of Libyan community pharmacists when presented with illegible prescription orders involving poorly handwritten LASAMs. Therefore; this cross-sectional study using simulated patient methodology, was performed to assess predictors for dispensing errors among 400 community pharmacists and evaluate their ability to interpret and dispense illegible handwritten prescriptions of LASAMs. Four prescriptions, each with 1–4 items (10 total items, including either Duphalac® or Duphaston®) were evaluated, yielding a thousand measurements. Results: The findings revealed significant challenges in interpreting illegible handwritten prescriptions, with 45.5% of pharmacists correctly identifying the LASAM. Generic drug names as Aspirin (94%) and Dexamethasone (77%), were interpreted more accurately compared to brand names like Utrogestan® (21%) and Pregnyl® (12%). Key predictors of dispensing errors include: single drug item prescriptions ([AOR] [95% CI]: 1.842 [1.15-2.950]; p = 0.011), crowded pharmacy ([AOR] [95% CI]: 2.165[1.256- 3.731]; p = 0.005), and evening visits ([AOR] [95% CI]: 1.983[1.119- 3.517]; p = 0.019). Pharmacists who sought additional information ([AOR] [95% CI]: 0.330 [0.208- 0.524]; p < 0.001), or referred patients to the physician ([AOR] [95% CI]: 0.241 [0.124- 0.468]; p < 0.001) achieved correct dispensing, reducing errors by 67% and 75.9%; respectively. Conclusion: Urgent systemic interventions, including the implementation of Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) systems, standardized prescription-writing practices, and targeted pharmacists training programs are critical to enhance patient safety in Libya’s healthcare system.